Pokrovsk, Ukraine , 2 December (H.S.): Russia announced on Monday the capture of Pokrovsk, a key military logistics hub in eastern Ukraine's Donetsk region, alongside the city of Vovchansk in the northeast. Kremlin officials declared that Russian forces had successfully taken control of these critical locations after months of fierce fighting. The announcement follows Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to frontline troops, where he praised the operation’s success as ensuring steady progress towards achieving military objectives.Pokrovsk, a major road and rail junction, has seen intense combat, with Russian troops gradually infiltrating the city despite strong Ukrainian defenses.

The Kremlin released video footage showing Russian soldiers raising the national flag over Pokrovsk’s central square. However, Ukrainian authorities have yet to confirm the full extent of Russian control, with Ukrainian forces reportedly continuing to resist sustaining operations in the area.The capture of Pokrovsk, if fully secured, threatens Ukraine’s supply lines and could allow Russian forces to advance further north and west while putting nearby Ukrainian garrisons at risk of encirclement.

Similarly, Vovchansk, close to the Russian border in the Kharkiv region, remains devastated after prolonged conflict.This development intensifies pressure on Kyiv amidst ongoing US-backed peace negotiations, signaling a complex and evolving battlefield scenario. Russian Defense Minister hailed the captures as pivotal steps towards victory, underscoring Moscow’s tactical gains even as diplomatic efforts work to resolve the war.

The situation remains fluid, with continued combat and strategic moves on both sides shaping the trajectory of the conflict.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar